The European Union is preparing a key instrument for product traceability: the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Although the first mandatory requirements will apply to the textile, battery, and electronics sectors, discussions are advancing rapidly toward extending the system to the food industry as well, where traceability, safety, and sustainability are becoming top priorities.

The DPP is not a simple electronic label, but a unique digital file that accompanies the product throughout the entire value chain—from raw material to consumer.

What a Digital Product Passport for food would contain

In its proposed form, a food DPP would include:

• the origin of ingredients and their complete traceability path;
• data on farms, processing facilities, and transport stages;
• information on energy consumption and carbon footprint;
• details on additives, thermal treatments, and microbiological analyses;
• results of quality controls and compliance documents;
• an individualized QR code, scannable by the consumer.

All this data is stored in an interoperable, secure format, with automatic updates.

Why would the EU want a DPP for food?

Food is the sector of highest public interest, and the new system would deliver:

Complete traceability in seconds Food safety investigations become faster and more precise.

Reduction of food fraud False origin claims, dilution, and ingredient substitution become almost impossible.

Total transparency for consumers Customers can verify the entire product journey in real time, directly on their phones.

Useful data for international trade Romanian exporters can more easily demonstrate compliance with European standards.

How it will impact the Romanian industry

1. Processors will need to digitalize internal workflows From raw material reception to shipment, every stage must be digitally recorded and accessible.

2. Much more closely monitored food logistics Vehicles, temperatures, cold chain integrity, and routes become part of the product’s digital history.

3. Small suppliers will be forced to align Butchers, small farms, and micro-processors will need low-cost digital systems to remain compliant.

4. Retail will gain access to dynamic data Stores will be able to display real-time freshness, not just expiration dates.

A competitive advantage for Romania

Although it may seem like a major effort, the DPP can become a strategic asset:

• it helps Romanian exporters compete more effectively with Western producers;
• it improves the reputation of traditional products;
• it allows brands to prove real sustainability and quality;
• it reduces long-term compliance costs.

What companies can do now

• implement traceability management platforms;
• use IoT sensors to monitor temperature and transport;
• digitize internal documentation (HACCP, analyses, certificates);
• adopt dynamic QR codes on labels.

The Digital Product Passport will fundamentally change how the food industry operates. For Romania, this represents an opportunity for modernization, not just a technical obligation. Companies that begin the transition early will gain credibility, easier access to export markets, and a more transparent relationship with consumers.

(Photo: Freepik)